Aggregator

Lebanon - Level 4: Do Not Travel

2 days 6 hours ago

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel.

On June 22, the Department of State ordered the departure of family members and non-emergency U.S. government personnel from Lebanon due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation in the region.

Do Not Travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, unexploded landmines, and the risk of armed conflict. Some areas, especially near the borders, have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

U.S. Embassy Beirut personnel are restricted from personal travel without advance permission. Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. personnel under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Commercial flights are available, but at reduced capacity. Please check flight options at Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Lebanon should be aware that consular officers from the U.S. Embassy are not always able to travel to assist them. The Department of State considers the threat to U.S. government personnel in Beirut serious enough to require them to live and work under strict security. The internal security policies of the U.S. Embassy may be adjusted at any time and without advance notice.

Since October 8, 2023, cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred between Hizballah and Israel. In some instances, targets have been well north of the border region. A cessation of hostilities between Israel and Lebanon went into effect on November 27, and implementation is ongoing; however, there are continued instances of military activity in some areas of Lebanon. The Lebanese government cannot guarantee the safety of U.S. citizens against sudden outbreaks of violence and armed conflict. Family, neighborhood, or sectarian disputes can escalate quickly and can lead to gunfire or other violence with no warning.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Lebanon. Terrorists may conduct attacks with little or no warning targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Local security authorities have noted a rise in violent crimes, including political violence. Multiple unsolved killings in Lebanon may have been politically motivated.

Kidnapping, whether for ransom, political motives, or family disputes, has occurred in Lebanon. Suspects in kidnappings may have ties to terrorist or criminal organizations.

Unexploded landmines and explosive remnants of war are a hazard along the border with Syria. Heed land mine warning signs. Do not venture off the road into areas marked off with red and white plastic tape. Avoid roadside ditches, shoulders, and unmarked trails. Never touch anything resembling unexploded munitions.

U.S. citizens should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests as these have the potential to turn violent quickly and with little notice. Protesters have blocked major roads, including thoroughfares between downtown Beirut and the area where the U.S. Embassy is located, and between Beirut and Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Lebanon.

If you decide to travel to Lebanon:

  • Visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Appoint one family member to serve as the point of contact with kidnappers/hostage-takers, media, U.S. and host country government agencies, and members of Congress if you are kidnapped, or taken hostage.
  • Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
  • Do not touch unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths due to risk of unexploded ordnance.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook  and  X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Lebanon.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
  • U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Southern Lebanon – Level 4:  Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There (See map below)

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid southern Lebanon and to depart if you are there; that is, all parts south of the city of Saida, to include inland areas, as illustrated in the map below. There have continued to be instances of military activity in South Lebanon and near the Syrian border since the cessation of hostilities went into effect.

Border with Syria – Level 4:  Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy strongly urges U.S. citizens to avoid the Lebanon-Syria border and to depart if you are there. This area has seen clashes between Lebanese security forces and Syrian-based groups, as well as recent airstrikes. The U.S. Department of State also warns U.S. citizens of the risk of traveling on flights that fly over Syria, which include some flights to and from Beirut.

Refugee Settlements – Level 4:  Do Not Travel, Depart If You Are There

The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to refugee settlements in Lebanon and depart if you are there. These settlements are prone to outbreaks of violence including shootings and explosions.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Level 2 - Oropouche in Parts of Brazil and Panama

1 week 1 day ago
There are outbreaks of Oropouche in Espírito Santo, Brazil, and Darién Province, Panama. Oropouche is spread primarily through the bites of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Country List : Brazil, Panama

Level 1 - Oropouche in the Americas

1 week 1 day ago
Areas in several countries are reporting a low number of cases of Oropouche. Oropouche is spread primarily through the bites of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Country List : Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Cuba, Panama, Venezuela

Level 1 - Global Dengue

1 week 1 day ago
Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Country List : Colombia, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, Guatemala, Panama, Sudan, French Polynesia, including the island groups of Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora-Bora), Marquesas Islands (Hiva Oa and Ua Huka), and Austral Islands (Tubuai and Rurutu), Philippines, Guadeloupe, Brazil, Fiji, Comoros, Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands (New Zealand), Kiribati (formerly Gilbert Islands), includes Tarawa, Tabuaeran (Fanning Island), and Banaba (Ocean Island)

India - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

1 week 3 days ago

Reissued after periodic review with updates to entry/exit requirements.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism. Some areas have increased risk.

Country Summary: Violent crime and terrorism occur in India.

  • Rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India.
  • Violent crimes, including sexual assault, happen at tourist sites and other locations.
  • Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target:
    • tourist locations
    • transportation hubs
    • markets/shopping malls
    • government facilities

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas.

  • These areas stretch from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal.
  • Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in India must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

If you decide to travel to India:

  • Do not bring a satellite phone or GPS device. Possessing a satellite phone or GPS device is illegal in India and may result in a penalty of $200,000 or jail time of up to three years.
  • Do not travel alone, especially if you are a woman. Read travel tips at Women Travelers.
  • Review your personal security plans and stay alert to your surroundings.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get alerts and make it easier for us to find you in an emergency.
  • Review the India Country Security Report from the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC)
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
  • We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir:
Do not travel
to this area (except for visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest.

  • Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible. Violence happens sporadically in this area and is common along the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan.
  • Violence also occurs in tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
  • The Indian government does not allow foreign tourists to visit certain areas along the LOC.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

India-Pakistan Border
Do not travel to this area due to potential for armed conflict.

  • India and Pakistan have a strong military presence on their respective sides of the border.
  • The only official border crossing for non-citizens of India or Pakistan is in Punjab. It is between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan.
  • The border crossing is usually open. Check the status before you travel.
  • To enter Pakistan, you need a Pakistani visa.
  • Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise, apply for a Pakistani visa in your home country before traveling to India.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Parts of Central and East India:
Do not travel to this area due to terrorism.

  • Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large area of India that spans from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal.
  • Attacks against officers of the Indian government continue to occur sporadically in the rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand that border with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. Southwest areas of Odisha are also affected.
  • The Naxalites have carried out many terrorist attacks, targeting local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Due to the changing nature of the threat, U.S. government employees working in India are required to obtain permission prior to traveling to most areas in the states of:

  • Bihar
  • Jharkhand
  • Chhattisgarh
  • West Bengal
  • Meghalaya
  • Odisha

Permission is not required if employees are traveling only to the capital cities of these states.

U.S. government employees working in India also need approval to travel to the eastern region of Maharashtra and the eastern region of Madhya Pradesh.

U.S. citizens are advised not to cross the India-Nepal border by land due to the risk for immigration related detention and fines.

  • Violations of Indian immigration laws are taken very seriously. India may imprison, fine, or deny entry to travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa.
  • Electronic visas are not accepted for land border crossings into India. Even those with physical visas have faced issues, including detention and hefty court expenses, due to misunderstandings over permitted travel and durations of stay.
  • If you choose to cross the India-Nepal land border, be advised to use caution and obey all immigration requirements.

Manipur
Do not travel to Manipur due to the threat of violence and crime.

  • Ongoing ethnic-based conflict has resulted in reports of extensive violence and community displacement.
  • Attacks against Indian government targets occur on a regular basis.
  • U.S. government employees working in India require prior approval before visiting Manipur.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Northeastern states
Reconsider travel to this area due to terrorism and violence.

  • Ethnic insurgent groups occasionally commit acts of violence in parts of the northeast.
  • These incidents include bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets.
  • There have been no recent reports of violence in Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim, or Tripura.
  • U.S. government employees working in India require prior approval before visiting the states of Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as when visiting any areas outside of the capital cities of Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Tripura.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Mozambique - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

1 week 3 days ago

Updated to reflect change in overall travel advisory level from 3 to 2 due to decrease of election related protests, and addition of Niassa Special Reserve to Do Not Travel section.

Exercise increased caution when traveling to Mozambique due to health issuescrime, civil unrest, and terrorism. Some areas have greater risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel To:

  • Cabo Delgado Province, the Niassa Special Reserve inside Niassa Province, and certain districts in the north of Nampula Province due to terrorism.

Country Summary: Unplanned protests remain possible throughout the country and can quickly become violent. Protests may temporarily block major roads, including toll booths and border crossings.

Violent crime, such as mugging, is common.

Mozambique’s health infrastructure is weak, medicine availability is variable and often in short supply. Local medical facilities may lack basic resources and supplies, and may require cash payment up front. There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mozambique. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorist groups in northern Mozambique continue to be active. Attackers may strike public areas and tourist destinations with little or no warning, sometimes taking hostages. Upscale lodges in remote areas which cater to international big-game hunters have been targeted. Security and police forces may be slow to respond.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Mozambique.

If you decide to travel to Mozambique:

  • Avoid all but emergency travel between sunset and sunrise.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive messages and Alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Mozambique.
  • Prepare a plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
  • We highly recommend you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.
  • Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.

Cabo Delgado Province, the Niassa Special Reserve within Niassa Province, and certain northern districts in Nampula Province – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorists continue to conduct and plot attacks on government forces, villages, and key supply routes in Cabo Delgado Province and the bordering districts of Memba and Erati in Nampula Province. Cabo Delgado’s capitol city of Pemba is vulnerable to attack due to the proximity of violent extremist forces and their increasing sophistication. Upscale hunting lodges in and around the Niassa Special Reserve have been specifically targeted by terrorists with hostages taken.

Although prior terrorist attacks centered around securing resources from government forces, travelers should be aware of their surroundings, especially in large public places.

Be aware of increased government security checkpoints in Cabo Delgado Province.

If you must travel to the affected areas of Cabo Delgado, Niassa, and Nampula Provinces, consider hiring a security firm.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Marshall Islands - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

1 week 3 days ago

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in the Marshall Islands.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Marshall Islands.

If you decide to travel to Marshall Islands:

See Individual Summaries -

1 week 3 days ago

Updated due to the Authorized Departure of Family Members of U.S Government employees and some Non-Emergency U.S. Government Employees.

On June 14, the Department of State authorized the voluntary departure of family members and non-emergency U.S. government employees due to the volatile and unpredictable security situation in the region.

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. 

Do Not Travel To:

  • Israel due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest

Do Not Travel To:

  • West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest

Do Not Travel To:

  • Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict
  • Northern Israel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to continued military presence and activity

Country Summary: Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

Some areas have increased risk.  Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Check the most recent Alerts at the Embassy website for the latest information on travel in all of these areas. 
  • Maintain a high degree of situational awareness and exercise caution at all times, especially at checkpoints and other areas with a significant presence of security forces.
  • Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
  • Follow the instructions of security and emergency response officials.
  • Beware of and report suspicious activities, including unattended items, to local police.
  • Learn the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened shelter. Download the Home Front Command Red Alert application or similar apps for mobile devices (available on devices within Israel) to receive real time alerts for rocket and missile attacks and armed UAV intrusions.  U.S. government employees in Israel are encouraged to use these apps.
  • Obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes medical evacuation prior to travel.  Most travel insurance packages do not cover mental health related illnesses/care. 
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • When traveling in rural areas, exercise caution given the possibility of unexploded ordnance.  Do not touch or collect debris from rocket, missile, or UAV interceptions.

Israel – Do Not Travel (see below for additional information regarding areas near the Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Do not travel due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest.

The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

  • Within 11.3 kilometers/seven miles of the Gaza demarcation line; and
  • Within 2.4 kilometers/1.5 miles of the Israel-Egypt border.

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

The Israeli authorities restrict travel to areas close to the border given the Israeli Defense Forces continued presence and activity.  Do not travel to this area for any reason.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel are currently restricted from personal travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.  Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization to travel close to these borders.

The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens not travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.

Gaza – Do Not Travel

Do not travel for any reason due to terrorism and armed conflict.

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there.  The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile.  The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel (Erez Crossing) was damaged on October 7, 2023, and remains closed.   The pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza (Rafah Crossing) has been closed since May 7, 2024, and remains closed to the general public.    

If a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at JerusalemACS@state.gov.

Visit our website for Travel to High Risk Areas.

If you decide to travel to Gaza:

  • Be prepared for an indefinite stay as the crossings between Gaza with Israel and Egypt can close without advance notice and for long periods during times of unrest and armed conflict.  This includes having food, supplies, and medicine for an extended or indefinite period.
  • Have a plan for entering and departing Gaza that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • If you use assistive or medical devices that require a power supply, be sure to find backup power or other ways that will sustain your device or equipment without access to power.
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.

Please be sure to visit our website for Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready for information that may be helpful.

West Bank – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to terrorism and civil unrest.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization travel to the West Bank.  U.S. government employees are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

  • U.S. government employees can use Routes 1, 90, and 443 at any time. 
  • U.S. government employees are permitted personal daylight travel to Jericho and Bethlehem, including Beit Jala and Beit Sahour.  Given continued closures of checkpoints throughout the West Bank, the only permitted and accessible route into Bethlehem for U.S. government employees and their family members is through Checkpoint 300 near Rachel’s Tomb. 

Over the past several months, there has been an increase in violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks.  Some incidents have resulted in injury or death of U.S. citizens.  During periods of unrest, the Israeli government may restrict access to and within the West Bank, and some areas may be placed under curfew.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees working in Israel with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for Travel to High Risk Areas.

Level 2 - Global Polio

1 week 3 days ago
Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Country List : Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Indonesia, Sudan, Mali, Kenya, Guinea, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Angola, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Republic of South Sudan, Uganda, French Guiana (France), Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Spain, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, Finland, Germany, Poland, United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Burkina Faso, Papua New Guinea

Dominican Republic - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

2 weeks ago

Updated after periodic review with minor edits.  Last updated June 18, 2024.

Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.

Advisory Summary:  Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists. Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals from online in secluded locations.

If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic, note that violent crime is a concern throughout the country affecting all residents regardless of nationality, including:

  • Robbery
  • Homicide
  • Sexual assault

Resources available to tourists:

  • 911 emergency response system
  • Professional tourist police force (POLITUR)
  • Private security personnel in resorts

Safety tips:

  • Pay attention to your surroundings.
  • Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
  • Be vigilant about where your phone is and avoid using it openly on the street.
  • If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
  • Travel with a partner or group if possible.
  • Do not leave food or drinks unattended.

Criminals are rarely caught and prosecuted.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use these general tips to stay safe:

Follow the Department of State on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

Iraq - Level 4: Do Not Travel

2 weeks 1 day ago

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel.

On June 11, the Department of State ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel due to heightened regional tensions.

Do not travel to Iraq due to terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict, civil unrest, and the U.S. government’s limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Iraq. Do not travel to Iraq for any reason.

Country Summary: U.S. citizens in Iraq face high risks, including violence and kidnapping. Terrorist and insurgent groups regularly attack Iraqi security forces and civilians. Anti-U.S. militias threaten U.S. citizens and international companies. Attacks using improvised explosive devices, indirect fire, and unmanned aerial vehicles occur in many areas, including major cities. The Department of State requires U.S. government personnel in Iraq to live and work under strict security due to serious threats.

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country. These events can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services, and sometimes turn violent.

Do not travel near armed groups or Iraq’s northern borders due to:

  • Continued threat of attacks by terrorist groups
  • Armed conflict
  • Aerial bombardment
  • Civil unrest

U.S. citizens should not travel through Iraq to engage in armed conflict in Syria, where they would face extreme personal risks (kidnapping, injury, or death) and legal risks (arrest, fines, and expulsion). The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq has stated it will impose prison sentences of up to ten years on individuals who illegally cross the Iraq-Syria border. Fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations can constitute the provision of material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines. Read the Syria Travel Advisory for more information.

Because of security concerns, U.S. government personnel in Baghdad are prohibited from using Baghdad International Airport.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Iraq.  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notices.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Iraq.

If you decide to travel to Iraq:

  • Establish a personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
  • Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
  • Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them for identification purposes.
  • Have departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
  • Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
  • Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return to the United States as planned.
  • Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts from the U.S. Embassy and make it easier to contact you in an emergency.
  • Review the Country Security Report for Iraq.
  • Visit the CDC website for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage

Canada - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 1 day ago

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Canada.

Advisory summary: Canada is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Canada.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use these general tips to stay safe:

Level 2 - Chikungunya in the Region of the Indian Ocean

2 weeks 2 days ago
There are outbreaks of chikungunya in Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Réunion, Somalia, and Sri Lanka. Mosquitoes spread the virus that causes chikungunya. Country List : Réunion (France), Mayotte (France), Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Somalia, Kenya, Madagascar

Thailand - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

2 weeks 3 days ago

Updated to reflect lower travel advisory level for some provinces in Thailand.  

Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise Increased Caution to:

  • Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla provinces due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Thailand.

If you decide to travel to Thailand:

Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat Provinces – Level 2:  Exercise Increased Caution

Periodic violence between Thai security services and armed insurgents has been known to occur in Thailand’s three southernmost provinces of Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat.  Seventeen districts in these provinces remain under a declared state of emergency due to ongoing violent conflict.  There is a collateral risk of violence for U.S. citizens in Thailand’s southernmost provinces due to low intensity conflict.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in these provinces as U.S government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these provinces.

Poland - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

3 weeks ago

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.                 

Exercise normal precautions in Poland.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Poland.

If you decide to travel to Poland:                                  

Qatar - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

3 weeks 2 days ago

Updated after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Qatar.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) for the region, including Qatar.  This is due to risks to civil aviation from political and military tensions in the region.  The notice advises U.S. operators to review current threat information and to report safety or security incidents. For more information, U.S. citizens should consult the Federal Aviation Administration.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Qatar.

If you decide to travel to Qatar: